Beloved Waterford dad who died while on holidays in Spain to be laid to rest on Saturday

Heartfelt tributes were paid to Mr Grant after his sudden death in Magaluf on Monday, July 1. The 45-year-old physiotherapist from Pinewood Drive, Hillview, Waterford City, had been instrumental in the development of Mount Sion GAA club, was a founder of St Joseph’s Juvenile Academy at St Joseph’s AFC, and was their head child coach.

Mr Grant is survived by his wife Leanne, his four children Kayley, Niamh, Shay and Sofia, his parents Michael (Sam) and Marie (Grant), sisters Jeannette, Deborah and Deirdre, brothers and best friends Brian and Alan, his parents-in-law Luke and Tina (Nolan), brothers-in-law Les and Shane, Shane’s wife Trish, sisters-in-law Lilian, Sinead and Catherine, Catherine’s partner Gordon, and by his ten nieces and nephews, godchildren, uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family, relatives, neighbours and his wide circle of friends.

Mr Grant will be lying in repose at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Barrack Street, Waterford on Friday, July 12, from 6pm to 8.30pm with prayers at 8pm.

Mourners will walk from the funeral home on Saturday, July 13, to the Holy Family Church, Luke Wadding Street, Waterford for Mass on arrival at 11am followed by burial in Kilbarry cemetery. Mass will be live streamed from 10.50am on Saturday, at www.youtube.com/live/jfFEBJk_-G4.

Mr Grant touched the lives of many through his volunteerism and involvement in sport. There has been an huge outpouring of condolences to his family.

One woman wrote: “Condolences to Mickey’s wife, kids, family and friends. He was a wonderful man and had great time for all the kids in St Josephs. When he told Freddie if he kept up the hard work he would be playing U11s league next year he may as well have told him he was after signing for the premier league.

“I know those words will stick with him forever and I hope the family take cherish on the impact Mickey had on those around him. He will be sorely missed from the club.”

Another friend of the family said: “My sincere condolences to Leanne, Kayley, Niamh, Shay Sofia and all the Grant family on the sad, sad passing of Michael.

“He was one of those people who brightened up your day when he’d stop for a chat. Always spoke about Leanne and his kids and how proud he was of each of them. He will be sorely missed. Condolences also to all of Michael’s friends in Mount Sion GAA and St Josephs FC. Rest in peace Michael.”

Another mourner said: “To all Michael’s beautiful family, thinking about each of you daily. Michael was an absolute gem. Very selfless, enthusiastic in everything he did, so caring and generous with his time for others. He lived for the days on the field with kids.

“Be it hurling, camogie or soccer. Michael, you had a wonderful way about you and your presence will be missed massively. Be kind to yourselves Leanne, kids, siblings and lovely parents. Lean on those you love for support always, rest in peace Mickey.”